Nigeria and Canada are gearing up to strengthen their collaboration with the upcoming Crossroads culture festival, aiming to build a platform for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
At the United Nations House in Abuja, Nigeria, excitement filled the air as the Crossroads of Culture Festival was unveiled, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration.
This unveiling acted as a prelude to the main event, scheduled for August 9th to 10th in Canada.
The launch included a high-level discussion involving policymakers, cultural experts, and representatives from UNESCO and other international bodies, stressing the importance of preserving Nigeria’s rich intangible cultural heritage.
Mr. Chuks Anyaduba, the brains behind the Crossroads of Culture Festival, shared insights into its various components, such as the Flavours of Nigeria Festival, Afro Fashion Marketplace, and Afro-Commerce Connect.
He highlighted the festival’s mission to showcase Nigeria’s cultural wealth on a global scale, even sharing a warm letter of welcome from Brampton’s Mayor, Patrick Brown.
Mr Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), emphasized the significance of arts and culture, pledging NCAC’s support for endeavours promoting Nigeria’s cultural diversity.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), echoed this sentiment, stressing NIDCOM’s backing for Nigerian festivals worldwide as a means of projecting the country’s identity internationally.
UNESCO Culture Programme Specialist, Philippe Delanghe, shed light on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage and Nigeria’s cultural treasures.
Michael Murphy, Councilor on Political Affairs at the High Commission of Canada, reiterated Canada’s commitment to initiatives like the Crossroads of Culture Festival, strengthening ties between the two nations.
A policy dialogue ensued through a panel discussion moderated by Africa Tourism Board Ambassador, Chioma Anyiwo. The panel discussed the imperative of safeguarding Nigeria’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Notable figures present included Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, represented by Elizabeth Pam, and Minister of Youth Development, represented by Dr. Aminu Isyaku. Also in attendance were Cultural Councilor Li Xuda from the Embassy of China, Senator Ned Nwoko represented by Barr Onyeka Nwokolo, and renowned Nollywood actors Uzee Usman and Monalisa Chinda.
As preparations unfold for the main festival in Canada, excitement mounts for an event poised to spotlight Nigeria’s vibrant culture to the world.
The Crossroads of Culture Festival serves as a conduit, linking these two nations while championing unity, inclusivity, and collaboration.
